Johnson et al suggest several explanations for the increasing
inability of overweight individuals to recognise themselves as such.
An additional factor encouraging such misperception might be clothing
size. UK ladies clothing sizes have the arbitrary classification of
10,12,14 etc. This system gives purchasers no accurate feedback about
their actual size and allows scope for self-deception!
For example, in my wardrobe hang a pair of size 14 trousers purchased
from a leading high street merchandiser in approximately 1995. Although
these trousers remain a good fit (neither too large nor too small) I now
require a size 10 trouser from the same retailer.
So should I believe that I am two sizes smaller than when an SHO!
The fashion industry might influence in this area of public health.
Realistic and consistent sizing rather than the current ever-expanding and
increasingly generous system might help people both to recognise their
size and take appropriate action. Without the intervention of a physician
most ladies would surely pale to realise they are not the perfect 10 they
have been encouraged to imagine!
Rapid Response:
Changing size changing perception?
Sir,
Johnson et al suggest several explanations for the increasing
inability of overweight individuals to recognise themselves as such.
An additional factor encouraging such misperception might be clothing
size. UK ladies clothing sizes have the arbitrary classification of
10,12,14 etc. This system gives purchasers no accurate feedback about
their actual size and allows scope for self-deception!
For example, in my wardrobe hang a pair of size 14 trousers purchased
from a leading high street merchandiser in approximately 1995. Although
these trousers remain a good fit (neither too large nor too small) I now
require a size 10 trouser from the same retailer.
So should I believe that I am two sizes smaller than when an SHO!
The fashion industry might influence in this area of public health.
Realistic and consistent sizing rather than the current ever-expanding and
increasingly generous system might help people both to recognise their
size and take appropriate action. Without the intervention of a physician
most ladies would surely pale to realise they are not the perfect 10 they
have been encouraged to imagine!
Yours sincerely,
Sara Smith
Competing interests:
None declared
Competing interests: No competing interests